GENERAL SANTOS CITY — A community leader serving as a Purok Chairman and a member of the Lupong Tagapamayapa in Barangay Buayan was arrested in a police buy-bust operation on Saturday evening, February 8, 2026, along the National Highway in Barangay Buayan.
The suspect, identified only by his alias “Jing-Jing,” is a 45-year-old married resident and an active member of the barangay peace council. While a Purok Chairman is not a barangay official, the position plays a vital role in managing and maintaining order within a specific area or zone under the barangay.
He was apprehended at around 8:20 p.m. by operatives of the Police Station 3 Drug Enforcement Team, with support from BPat Team Leopard and other police units.
Police said the operation was launched after authorities received information that the suspect was allegedly involved in the sale of illegal drugs within the community. An undercover operative was able to conduct a successful transaction, which led to the suspect’s immediate arrest after he handed over suspected illegal substances.
Several sachets of suspected illegal drugs were recovered during the operation. These were properly marked, inventoried, and documented in the presence of witnesses, including media representatives, in accordance with standard police procedures.
Following his arrest, the suspect was brought to the Lagao Police Station and is currently detained at the lock-up cell while authorities prepare the necessary charges. He is expected to face cases for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Police officials stressed that community leaders, regardless of rank or position, are expected to uphold the law and serve as role models in their respective areas.
“The arrest shows that no one is exempt from the law. Those entrusted with maintaining peace in their communities must set a good example,” a police spokesperson said.
Authorities are now conducting a deeper investigation to determine whether the suspect has accomplices and to assess the scope of his alleged illegal activities.
The Philippine National Police urged the public to remain vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activities as part of the ongoing campaign against illegal drugs in General Santos City.
The suspect remains in police custody pending the filing of formal charges before the prosecutor’s office.